Robbie Weir signs new two-year contract with Burton Albion

ROBBIE Weir has agreed to stay at Burton Albion for another two years after penning a new deal at the Pirelli Stadium.

The 25-year-old midfielder has become a vital part of Gary Rowett’s side since arriving from Tranmere Rovers two summers ago.

“Robbie was one of the players I was very keen to try to get re-signed,” Brewers boss Rowett said last night.

“Over the last two seasons he’s been excellent for us and I hope there’s more to come from him.”

Weir began with a bang in his first pre-season for Albion, scoring a hatful of goals from midfield.

Since then, while being a key part of the side, he has found the net a little harder to come by, with nine goals in 101 appearances in all competitions.

But Rowett is hopeful the Northern Irishman’s luck in front of goal will soon change.

“That first summer he scored threeor four,” he said. “We’re certainly looking to get him back to that form he showed early on.

“He’s a young man and he’s a big part of what we’ve done in the last two seasons, getting to the play-offs twice.

“I’m delighted he’s agreed to sign a new deal and it’s great news for the club.”

Weir’s decision to stay also means the Brewers do not have to dip into the transfer market for a replacement, with League One quality midfielders not easy to come by - or cheap.

“If he’d gone suddenly you’ve got to sign another player of that quality,” said Rowett. “With all the little bits involved in getting a player to your club, it’s a better deal, and an easier deal for the club.”

Weir follows Ian Sharps, Phil Edwards, Dean Lyness, Dominic Knowles and Lee Bell in getting a new contract, while the club has brought in Shane Cansdell-Sherriff - following his loan spell - Lucas Akins, John Mousinho and George Taft.

New deals are still on the table for defenders Damien McCrory and Marcus Holness and a decision is expected from the duo in the coming weeks before pre-season training starts in July.